As the seasons shift and the crisp air of autumn arrives, our bodies, minds, and energy also go through changes. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is associated with the Metal element, the Lungs and Large Intestine, and a time of letting go—both physically and emotionally.
Understanding how to nourish your body and mind in autumn can help strengthen your immune system, improve digestion, and bring emotional balance. Let’s explore the wisdom of TCM and how you can align with this season for optimal health.
The Energy of Autumn in TCM
In TCM, each season corresponds to a specific element, organ system, and emotional state.
🍂 Element: Metal (associated with structure, discipline, and clarity)
🍂 Organs: Lungs (respiration, immunity) & Large Intestine (detoxification, digestion)
🍂 Emotion: Grief (a time to process and release)
🍂 Climate: Dryness (which can affect the skin, lungs, and digestion)
Autumn represents a time of consolidation and release—mirroring how trees shed their leaves to prepare for winter. It’s a season to strengthen the body, support immunity, and embrace change.
Common Health Issues in Autumn
As the weather cools and the air becomes drier, certain imbalances can arise. Some common issues include:
Dry skin, throat, and nasal passages
Coughs, allergies, or respiratory infections
Low energy or seasonal mood changes
Constipation or sluggish digestion
Feeling emotionally stuck or overwhelmed
To prevent and address these issues, TCM recommends lifestyle and dietary adjustments that harmonise with the season.
How to Live in Harmony with Autumn
1. Eat Seasonal & Warming Foods
In TCM, autumn calls for nourishing, moistening foods that counteract dryness and support the Lungs and digestion.
Best foods for autumn:
Cooked pears, apples, and figs (to moisten the lungs)
Soups and stews with pumpkin, sweet potato, and carrots
Whole grains like brown rice and oats
Nuts and seeds (especially walnuts and sesame)
White foods like cauliflower, radish, and onion (which correspond to the Metal element)
Foods to avoid: Cold, raw foods like salads, excess dairy, and iced drinks, which can weaken digestion.
2. Support Your Lungs with Breathwork & Movement
Because the Lungs are the focus of autumn, it’s essential to strengthen their function with deep breathing and gentle exercise.
TCM practices for lung health:
Morning breathing exercises or Qi Gong
Gentle yoga or tai chi to encourage circulation
Daily walks in fresh air to boost lung capacity
3. Strengthen Immunity with Acupuncture & Herbs
Autumn is a key time for immune system support, especially before winter.
TCM immunity boosters:
Acupuncture can regulate lung function and strengthen your body’s defenses
Herbs like astragalus and ginger can help boost Qi and warm the body
A cup of honey-ginger tea can soothe the throat and prevent colds
4. Let Go of Emotional & Physical Clutter
The Large Intestine’s role in TCM isn’t just physical—it’s also about emotional detox. Autumn is the season to release what no longer serves you, whether that’s old habits, stress, or past emotions.
Ways to embrace emotional release:
Journaling to reflect on what you’re ready to let go of
Decluttering your home for a fresh, organised space
Setting boundaries and prioritising self-care
Embrace Autumn with Traditional Chinese Medicine
By living in alignment with the seasonal wisdom of TCM, you can boost your immune system, digestion, and emotional well-being throughout autumn.
Do you need support in transitioning into the season? Acupuncture can help strengthen your energy, prevent seasonal imbalances, and keep you feeling your best.
Book your seasonal acupuncture session today!
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